Tottenham move to trump Arsenal in race for French U21 Eliaquim Mangala

Tottenham are ready to steal a march on rivals Arsenal with a move for Standard Liege midfielder Eliaquim Mangala.

London calling?: Eliaquim Mangala is a subject of interest for Spurs and Arsenal (PA)

The French under-21 international is being tracked by the Gunners, as well as Paris Saint-Germain and Lille, but itâs Spurs who are gearing up to make the first move for the Â£4million-rated ace.

Harry Redknapp knows heâll need reinforcements to compete in next yearâs scrap for Champions League places, and a move for the highly-regarded midfield dynamo would represent an astute way for the north Londoners to kick-off their summer spending.

The 20-year-oldâs agent, Fabrizio Ferrari, has also recently revved up the possibility of a move to England, saying: âI think he is ready to move on and play in another championship – even if Standard is regarded as one of the top clubs in Europe.

âI hope to have some offers from English clubs (in the summer).â

Mangala shot to prominence when he scored against Arsenal in a 3-2 defeat for Liege last season.